Does Express Entry accept both TCF Canada and TEF Canada?

Yes. IRCC lists both TCF Canada and TEF Canada as accepted French language tests for Express Entry. When you apply, enter valid results from a designated testing organization under the current program requirements.

Is TCF Canada or TEF Canada easier?

No official organization identifies either test as easier. Their formats, timing, and raw scoring scales differ; compare local centres, available dates, and the format that suits you rather than choosing from an unofficial difficulty claim.

Can I compare TCF Canada and TEF Canada raw scores directly?

No. IRCC uses separate equivalency charts for the two tests and converts each ability to NCLC. Compare the NCLC reached in each ability, not raw scores as if they were from one scale.

TCF Canada vs TEF Canada: Which to Choose

IRCC accepts both TCF Canada and TEF Canada as proof of French for economic immigration. Both convert to the same NCLC levels, and programs treat them equally. Choose based on format preference and test-centre and date availability; results are valid for two years.

IRCC recognition

Both tests come from designated organizations: TCF Canada from France Éducation International and TEF Canada from Le français des affaires (CCI Paris Île-de-France). Results must be less than two years old when you apply, and all four skills must come from the same sitting.

Structure and scoring differences

TCF Canada has 39 listening questions (about 35 minutes), 39 reading questions (60 minutes), 3 writing tasks (60 minutes), and 3 speaking tasks (about 12 minutes); listening and reading use the 100-699 scale while writing and speaking are graded out of 20. TEF Canada differs in question counts, timing, and scale, so check the operator's official page for the current structure.

Same NCLC outcome

Whichever test you take, IRCC converts results to the same NCLC levels using its official equivalency charts. Program requirements, such as NCLC 7 for the Express Entry French-language category, do not depend on the test brand. The TCF→NCLC converter shows target scores directly.

How to decide

Compare available centres and dates in your city first, then try free full-length sets to feel the TCF pacing. If multiple-choice questions with progressive difficulty suit you, TCF usually feels more natural; otherwise TEF is an equal alternative for immigration.

Frequently asked questions

Does Express Entry accept both TCF Canada and TEF Canada?: Yes. IRCC lists both TCF Canada and TEF Canada as accepted French language tests for Express Entry. When you apply, enter valid results from a designated testing organization under the current program requirements.
Is TCF Canada or TEF Canada easier?: No official organization identifies either test as easier. Their formats, timing, and raw scoring scales differ; compare local centres, available dates, and the format that suits you rather than choosing from an unofficial difficulty claim.
Can I compare TCF Canada and TEF Canada raw scores directly?: No. IRCC uses separate equivalency charts for the two tests and converts each ability to NCLC. Compare the NCLC reached in each ability, not raw scores as if they were from one scale.

Official source

2026-07-12.

IRCC: approved language tests

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This page provides educational information only and is not legal or immigration advice.